First international symposium on Grenache

The Grenache Symposium (June 5-6) will be presented by vineyards Chene Bleu and Domaine de Mourchon at La Verriere in Crestet, high in the mountains of the Rhône Valley, a region noted for its exceptional Grenache grapes.

Top wine makers, critics, merchants and experts from around the world have registered for the inaugural event to discuss and shape the future of Grenache -- the most widely planted red grape in the world, and most important in economic terms. Although much loved by wine professionals, the variety is generally unknown to consumers. Delegates will compare notes on wine growing and the challenges faced in the existing and emerging markets. 

Event host Nicole Rolet of Chene Bleu believes it’s the most productive format to meet the challenge: “Many wine professionals love Grenache and feel it’s the winemaking world’s best kept secret. Everyone knows Pinot, Syrah, Cabernet, Chardonnay – but Grenache is the unsung hero and actually more widely used. 

"The goal is to create a huge international brainstorming session," she says.  "Delegates meet in small groups by topic and put all their knowledge and ideas together. They present their findings to the press and participants, then contribute to the creation of The Global Guide to Great Grenache.”

The Symposium will be led by Steven Spurrier, wine expert and consulting editor of Decanter magazine, and Michel Bettane, French wine critic and co-author of Le Grand Guide des Vins de France.

Limited places are available for the not-for-profit event. The €450 entrance fee includes all presentations, tastings and lunches, plus a Gala Dinner.

For more information on the event visit: www.grenachesymposium.com
The venue: La Verriere: www.laverriere.com is an exclusive conference venue and home to the newly launched Chene Bleu wines, www.chenebleu.comDomaine de Mourchon: www.domainedemourchon.com

1 May 2010 - Felicity Murray